Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed various international issues in an interview with Rich Edson of Fox News. The discussion covered topics including the Panama Canal, USAID, and U.S. relations with countries like Canada, Venezuela, Iran, and Cuba.
Rubio emphasized the importance of maintaining the Panama Canal as a neutral zone free from foreign control. "My hope ultimately is that we can get back to a point where that canal is what it was meant to be," he stated, highlighting concerns about Chinese influence in the area.
When questioned about USAID's operations, Rubio criticized the agency for acting as a global charity rather than a U.S. government entity. He noted, "They have basically evolved into an agency that believes that they’re not even a U.S. Government agency." He mentioned ongoing efforts to reform USAID and bring its operations under more direct control.
On trade relations with Canada, Rubio acknowledged changes due to tariffs but downplayed any serious negotiations regarding Canada becoming a U.S. state. "We’re not involved in a negotiation to make them a state," he clarified.
Regarding Venezuela, Rubio reiterated the administration's stance against recognizing Nicolás Maduro as the legitimate leader and stressed potential actions against his regime. "He knows and they know we have many options to inflict serious damage," he remarked.
Rubio also touched on Iran, advocating for increased pressure until they cease their nuclear activities: "I think we need to apply more pressure to Iran."
Finally, Rubio dismissed any plans to visit Havana under the current Cuban regime, describing it as hostile to the United States.
